Herkimer County Soil Data
Herkimer County, New York
USDA SSURGO / PHZMAvg pH
5.1
Texture
Loam
Drainage
N/A
Organic Matter
37.8%
Hydrologic Group
N/A
Data Story
About Soil in Herkimer County, New York
A Typical New York Soil Profile
Herkimer County's soil pH averages 5.10, matching the state average of 5.11 almost perfectly. This is significantly more acidic than the national median pH of 6.5. This acidity level supports the mixed hardwood and coniferous forests common throughout the county.
Sandy Mix with Stable Structure
The soil is 34.4% sand, 27.2% silt, and 8.9% clay. This texture provides a good balance between drainage and stability, making it versatile for different uses. The low clay percentage ensures that the soil remains easy to work and does not get too heavy when wet.
Exceptional Organic Matter Levels
The soil boasts 37.76% organic matter, more than double the state average of 17.01%. Consequently, the available water capacity is 0.232 in/in, which is significantly higher than the New York average. These conditions create a highly fertile environment that naturally holds both water and nutrients.
Inferred Drainage and Hydrologic Health
There is no dominant drainage class or hydrologic group currently recorded for Herkimer County. However, the high organic matter and moderate sand levels suggest a soil that handles water effectively while resisting drought. Gardeners can expect high performance from these naturally sponge-like soils.
Abundant Potential in Zone 5b
Herkimer County sits in hardiness zone 5b, suitable for a wide variety of vegetables and perennial flowers. The high organic content makes this soil ideal for intensive vegetable gardening and fruit production. Start a garden here to take full advantage of these superior moisture-holding properties.
Soil Composition
Soil pH
Soil Series
Detailed soil series data not yet available for this county.
Hydrologic Group
Hydrologic group data not available.
Drainage Class
Drainage class data not available.
Soil Profile
Dominant texture: Loam
Typical soil profile. Actual depths vary by location.
USDA Soil Orders
Acidic Soil Detected
Your county's average pH is 5.1. These products help balance soil pH for healthier grass.
Browse Soil AmendmentsFrequently Asked Questions
What type of soil does Herkimer County have?
Herkimer County's soil is classified as Loam. This indicates the relative proportions of sand, silt, and clay — 34% sand, 27% silt, and 9% clay. Loamy soils hold moisture well and support a wide range of plants.
Is Herkimer County's soil acidic or alkaline?
Herkimer County's soil has a low pH of 5.1, which is strongly acidic. Acidic soils benefit from lime applications to raise pH and improve nutrient availability.
What is the drainage class for Herkimer County?
Drainage class data is not currently available for Herkimer County.
What crops or plants grow well in Herkimer County's soil?
Based on Herkimer County's Loam texture, pH of 5.1, and drainage class, the soil is well suited for acid-loving plants like blueberries and azaleas, row crops and vegetable gardens.
What USDA soil order is found in Herkimer County?
The dominant USDA soil order for Herkimer County is not currently available in our dataset.
Soil & Planting Advisory: Herkimer County
Soil Verdict
Herkimer County is in USDA hardiness zone 5b, a cold climate zone. where winter lows can reach -15°F. Freeze-thaw cycles are moderate; soil biology slows in winter but recovers reliably in spring, supporting a broad range of plants.
Planting Guidance
A wide plant palette is possible: deciduous trees, most shrubs, cool-season vegetables, and many perennials thrive here. Winter protection (mulch, burlap wraps) helps push the zone boundary for desired species. Always match plant selections to the specific microclimate of your property — low spots, slopes, and wind exposure can shift effective hardiness by half a zone.
Soil Implications
Moderate freeze-thaw cycles naturally aerate the soil but can also cause compaction in clay-heavy areas; annual core aeration is beneficial. Organic matter amendments decompose at a moderate pace — aim for 3-5% organic content for optimal fertility. When soil temperatures drop below freezing, microbial nitrogen cycling stops; spring fertilization is more effective than late-fall application.
Regional Context
Herkimer County is somewhat cooler than the New York statewide average. The zone range of 4a-5b within the county means soil and planting decisions should account for local elevation and topography.
Planning your lawn? View lawn care data for Herkimer County on LawnByCounty.com →
Other Counties in New York
Soil data sourced from USDA SSURGO via Soil Data Access. Data is informational only and should not be used as a substitute for on-site soil testing. Contact your local NRCS office for site-specific soil information.